Where to Find Adventures for Next to Nothing

We’ve all heard about the importance of play in our family lives, but who has the time? And who, in this belt-tightening era, has the money?

In the rush of everyday life, we sometimes forget that getaways don’t have to be lengthy or costly to be refreshing.

North County is full of simple pleasures that take only an hour or two to enjoy and cost little or nothing. All you’ll need to enjoy the activities outlined here are a few bucks to gas up the car and, in some cases, a few more to park it.

If you’re a newcomer to the area, you can experience the delight of first-time discovery. If you’ve lived here long, you’ve likely done a number of these things at least once--but most can be enjoyed time and time again.

From seaside explorations to mountain hikes, here are some of the outings within easy reach of North County parents and their children--and anyone else who delights in play:

BY THE SEA

The winter months bring a whole new personality to North County’s beaches and lagoons. With the summer’s tourists gone, parking is easier and crowds virtually nonexistent. Even on cooler days, an hour’s visit to the beach can clear the cobwebs from an adult head and provide a child with the opportunity to chase sea gulls or build a sandcastle.

Tide Pools: There are few more effective cures for the “rat race blues” than sitting by a tide pool for a few minutes and watching it come to life: The longer you look, the more you see. Children are natural experts at this kind of quiet, miraculous discovery. Winter is a particularly good time to enjoy the tide pools, as the low tides tend to expose more rocks than in the summer months.

For a successful tide-pooling adventure, be sure to wear old rubber-soled shoes. Remember to leave all of the sea’s treasures just as you found them.

Cardiff State Beach: The south end of this beach offers easily accessible tide pools with a great deal of variety. There is also plenty of sand for relaxing before, during or after exploring the pools. Ample parking; portable toilets but no showers. From Interstate 5, take the Lomas Santa Fe exit and go west to Old Highway 101; turn north. Phone: 753-5091.

Swami’s Beach: There is a large parking lot and a very long stairway to the beach. Because of the many stairs, this is not an ideal beach for toddlers or very young children. But the tide pools here are so outstanding and extensive that the climb is well worth it for families with children able and willing to walk. The beach is rocky and not well-suited for sunbathing.

From Interstate 5, take the Encinitas Boulevard exit and go west to Old Highway 101. Turn south and watch for the dome of the Self Realization Fellowship on your right, after about 5 miles.

Lagoons: In recent years, North County’s lagoons have been the subject of intensive community attention directed at saving their delicate ecology from encroaching civilization. The result is that they are more accessible than ever, and a new generation of kids can feed a new generation of ducks or watch the pelicans fish for their supper.

Buena Vista: The traditional “duck landing” is near Jefferson Street on the shore of the lagoon. The Audubon Society has opened a nature center at 2202 Hill St., which contains exhibits related to the lagoons. I also sponsors bird walks, many of them for beginners. Families can have the fun of learning a new skill together--children are often better than their parents at spotting a red-tailed hawk or a red-bellied finch.

To reach the nature center, take Interstate 5 to California 78, then go left on Vista Way. From Vista Way, turn left onto Hill Street. The center is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 1-4 p.m. Sunday. From Interstate 5, take the Jefferson Street off-ramp and go east. Phone: 439-BIRD.

Batiquitos: A 5-mile path winds along the north shore of this lagoon past shady eucalyptus trees and California live oaks. Plans are under way to develop a picnic area and amphitheater.

From Interstate 5, take the La Costa Avenue exit and go east to El Camino Real; turn left. Reach the east end of the lagoon from El Camino Real.

San Elijo: This lagoon is almost completely undeveloped; it’s a fine spot to watch fish jump from the water and birds dive after them. The Sierra Club sponsors San Elijo walks. For details, call the club at 299-1744. From Interstate 5, take the Manchester exit; the north end of the lagoon is accessible near San Elijo Drive. Phone: 694-3049.)

Beaches: These North County beaches are particularly suited to children, offering easy access and restroom facilities.

Oceanside: Just south of the Oceanside Pier is a long stretch of sand and surf. Strand Beach Park in this area includes a playground. During the winter, there is no lifeguard on duty in the tower at this beach. From Interstate 5, take Vista Way west to Hill Street; turn right. Access is from Cassidy or Harbor. Phone: 966-4530.

South Carlsbad State: This is another lovely, long stretch of beach with fire rings for hardy souls who want to cook out under the winter stars. The Encina Power Plant is the neighborhood landmark here. No lifeguards are on duty during the winter months. From Interstate 5, take the La Costa exit and go west to Old Highway 101; turn north. Access is from Ponto Drive. Phone: 438-3143.

Moonlight: This easy-access beach has a concession stand and full restrooms. Some of the best beach volleyball in the county is played here. Lifeguards are on duty year round here, so it’s a great place to go if you have ocean swimmers. From Interstate 5, take the Encinitas Boulevard exit and follow it west to the end. Phone: 944-3398.

Solana Beach County Park: This beach is known locally as Pillbox due to the concrete retaining walls. There are full restrooms and fire rings. Access is exceptionally easy; lifeguards are on duty all year. From Interstate 5, take the Lomas Santa Fe exit and follow to the end. Phone: 755-1569.

Seagrove Park: The grassy park above this beach is a perfect place to toss a Frisbee or enjoy a picnic lunch. In Del Mar at the foot of 15th St. Phone: 755-1556.

Oceanside Pier: This is one of the best fishing bargains in the county for young fishermen and the young at heart. No license is required, and there is no fee for dropping your line off the pier and trying your luck. There is a bait shop and restaurant at the end of the pier.

The pier is open 24 hours a day. From Interstate 5, take the Mission Street exit west to Hill Street. Go north on Hill one block to 3rd Street; turn left and follow to the end. Phone: 966-4530.

FOR THE BIRDS

You can watch for birds just about anywhere--in your own back yard or in someone else’s. Here are a few places that are family-friendly and don’t charge admission.

Bates Nut Farm: Although the main business of Bates Nut Farm is selling fruits, nuts, and other country gifts, there is no pressure to buy, and no cost for enjoying the small farm zoo they maintain there. Kids can get up close and personal with turkeys, rabbits, goats, sheep, and geese. There are shady, grassy areas for playing and picnicking; a trip to this peaceful rural area makes a refreshing excursion.

From I-15 take Valley Parkway in Escondido; follow it east to Valley Center road. Take Valley Center Road north into Valley Center and watch for Woods Valley Road on you right. Bates Nut Farm is at 15954 Woods Valley Road. Phone: 749-3333. Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Ostrich Ranch: Exotic creatures such as ostriches are bred and raised right in our own San Pasqual Valley. Ostriches of all ages (including fuzzy babies) are in a large pen where they will glide up to greet visitors with genuine interest and curiosity. There is a small gift shop offering unique objects made from ostrich eggs and feathers. The owners are happy to answer questions about these intriguing birds. (This outing pairs very conveniently with a visit to the San Pasqual Historic State Park.)

From I-15 take the Via Rancho Parkway exit in Escondido; turn right and watch for San Pasqual Road by the high school. Turn right and proceed about two miles. The entrance to the Ostrich Ranch is on your left. Phone: 741-2546. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily except Tuesdays.

Bird Centers: Bird lovers are a breed apart and there are several North County establishments dedicated to training, boarding and selling birds. But you don’t have to be in the market for a parrot or cockatiel to enjoy a visit to one of these centers. Kids and parents can share a fascinating hour or two listening to the birds conversations or watching their antics. Here are a some of the local bird emporiums.

A Bird Haven , 2203 E. Valley Parkway, Escondido. 741-2622. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays.

Hinkle’s Bird Shop, 344 E. Valley Parkway, Escondido. 741-8074. Open 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily except Sundays.

Feathers, 630 Nordahl Road, San Marcos, 480-6777. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays.

Ramona Bird Farm, 1798 Keyes Road, Ramona, 789-2473. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week.

FOR THE DAY

Some North County outings involve a little driving time, but offer a complete change of scene. It is entirely possible, on a winter day, to build a snowman in the morning and bask in the desert sun in the afternoon.

Palomar Mountain

Most winters bring snow to Palomar Mountain for at least a day or two. Its meadows and slopes are great places to play. Makeshift sleds are limited only by your creativity: trash can lids, garbage bags and Boogie boards among the styles you’ll see on the slopes. Sporting goods stores also sell simple plastic discs made for sliding down hills. Remember to bring a change of clothing for everyone, including dry shoes. Even without snow, Palomar Observatory makes a great excursion, with its illuminated photos of galaxies and planets. There is day hiking, picnicking and fishing (license required) in Palomar Mountain State Park, where you can now see autumn’s lovely colors in the surrounding forest.

To reach Palomar Mountain, take California 76 east from Interstate 15 to County Route S-6, and follow S-6 to the summit. An alternate route is via Ramona to Santa Ysabel, then to Lake Henshaw and northwest on County Route S-7. Observatory admission is free (742-2119). Palomar Mountain State Park day use fee is $3 per vehicle (742-3462 or 765-0755).

Anza Borrego Desert

Anza Borrego Desert State Park makes an easy, relaxing day trip. The Visitor Center is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, October through June. It offers a fine narrated slide show about the desert and a small museum of artifacts from the region. Upon request, you can have a postcard sent in the spring to let you know the best time to see the wildflowers that burst forth after winter’s rains. But even before this annual show, the park is a fine place to explore. From the Borrego Palm Canyon State Park Headquarters, near the Visitor Center, there is an easy 1.25-mile marked nature trail through the desert that ends in a charming palm oasis, complete with little waterfalls and pools where young adventurers can splash about.

Remember to bring sunscreen and hats, as well as plenty of water: the desert is warm and dry, even during the winter.

To reach the Visitor Center and Palm Canyon Park Headquarters, take California 76 east from I-15 to its junction with California 79: go north on 79 just a few miles to the junction with County Route S-22: follow S-22 east into the town of Borrego Springs. In Borrego Springs, go west at Christmas Circle, and follow the signs to the Visitor Center and/or the Park Headquarters, both less than 4 miles from the circle. Anza Borrego Desert State Park’s day use fee is $3 per vehicle (767-5311).

An excursion to this old Western mining town is a wonderful family outing. During apple-harvest time, you can feast on pie and sip cider. There are shops to explore and among the spots worth a visit are the historic Julian Hotel and the Julian Drugstore, which has a soda fountain straight from the 50s.

Julian can be reached by taking California 78 east from Escondido: or by taking California 76 east from I-15 to its junction with California 79, then 79 south to Julian.

OF LAKES AND PONDS

Parks--particularly those with a lake or pond--are great for a quick get-away in the middle of a harried day, or a no-fuss family outing on a weekend. Although the daylight hours are fewer during the winter months, the parks and lakes of North County are generally less crowded and more accessible than in summer.

Lake Poway: Large grassy areas, easy walking trails, horseshoe pits, picnic tables and barbecues. Fishing requires permit.

Open Wednesday through Sunday 6 a.m. to sunset for fishing; open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for non-fishing adventures. Admission: Free to residents of Poway. For all others, $3 per vehicle on weekdays, $4 per vehicle on weekends.

From I-15 take Rancho Bernardo Road east--it becomes Espola Road--for about 4.5 miles to the lake entrance on your left. Phone: 748-2224.

Dixon Lake: Large grassy areas, easy walking trails, horseshoe pits, picnic tables and barbecues. Fishing requires permit.

From I-15 take the El Norte exit in Esondido, go east 3.5 miles to la Honda Drive, then north to entrance. Phone: 741-4680. Hours: 6:30 a.m. to sunset daily. Free on weekdays; $1 per vehicle weekends.

San Dieguito Park: This charming, shady county park features a pond on the lower level where waterfowl congregate and welcome handouts from visiting humans. There is a shallow stream on the upper level where toddlers love to splash and explore. There are playgrounds, horseshoe pits, and plenty of picnic areas with nearby restrooms.

From I-5 take the Lomas Santa Fe exit in Solana Beach, then go east one mile to the park entrance. County Parks Department. 565-3600. Admission: $1 vehicle.

Felicita Park: The creek in Felicita Park is a favorite spot of local children for spotting “crawdads” and, in the spring, tadpoles. There’s plenty of shade, a playground, several easy walking trails, and picnic tables.

From I-15 take the Via Ranch Parkway exit in Escondido and go west one mile to Felicita Road., then north to the park entrance. County Parks Dept. 565-3600. Admission: $1 per vehicle.

Dos Picos County Park: Ducks and geese glide about on a small man-made lake, whose shores invite youngsters of all ages to sit and dream. Horseshoe pits, playgrounds and a large family picnic area make this park a great escape for an hour or a day.

From Ramona, go west on Highway 67 for about 3 miles to Mussey Grade Road; follow Mussey Grade Road one mile to Dos Picos Park Road. County Parks Department. 565-3600. Admission: $1 per vehicle.

INTO THE WOODS

Anyone old enough to walk can enjoy an adventure in nature if parents are sensitive to the child’s needs and abilities. Hikes need not be marathons of endurance: a 15-minute stroll can provide plenty of interest for even the youngest adventurer. Games to enlist a young child’s interest might include such challenges as “Who can spot the first yellow flower?” or “How many different colored leaves can you find?”

Bicycling is a wonderful option for families with children who are able to pedal a two-wheeler. Recently, mountain bicycling has become popular, and many of the trails described below provide excellent exploration for families with mountain bikes. A free map of local cycling routes is available by calling 231-2453.

Los Penasquitos Canyon: This lovely preserve encompasses the best of inland Southern California--streams, old shade trees, meadows and chaparral. There is even a small waterfall four miles from the entrance (too far for young children, but a worthwhile excursion for families with older kids.) Guided walks are frequently scheduled. Call the ranger at the number below for details. There are no facilities here, so plan accordingly.

From I-5, take the Mira Mesa Blvd. exit and go west to Black Mountain Road. Turn left and go about one mile to the entrance to the main trail. Phone 533-4067. Open all year 8 a.m. to sunset.

Quail Gardens: This romantic oasis in the middle of Encinitas is easy to explore, even for very young adventurers. There is a little waterfall and a lily pond with golden koi and a turtle. On the first Tuesday of every month, at 10:30 a.m., there is a free tour especially for children between the ages of 3 and 6. Older children will enjoy the regular tours offered at 10 a.m. every Saturday.

From I-5 take the Encinitas Blvd. exit. Go east to Quail Gardens Drive and turn left; follow the signs. Phone: 436-3036. Hours; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors Center open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Parking fee $1 per vehicle.

Guajome County Park: This is a particularly appealing nature adventure for very young naturalists, as it includes an easy marked nature trail, a playground, and restrooms. There are a couple of small lakes with waterfowl squawking to be fed.

From I-5 take Highway 76 (Mission Ave) east for 7 miles to the park entrance. Phone: 565-3600 (County Parks Department). Hours: 9:30 a.m. to sunset. Admission: $1 per vehicle.

BY THE BOOK

Libraries

One of the best bargains in anyone’s community is the local library.

Long gone are the days of musty, solemn rooms and a stern librarian glaring at anyone who breathed too loud. Today’s libraries are vital centers of creative activities and new opportunities, and almost all include inviting children’s sections.

The children’s librarians schedule frequent story hours for children of all ages. Many also offer crafts and special activities oriented around holidays and school breaks, as well as puppet shows, plays and movies. Of course, in addition to special events and story hours, there are books, records, and videos to check out and enjoy at home free of charge. Call your local branch for details on programs and hours.

Julian, 765-0370; Ramona, 738-2434; Poway, 748-2411; Rancho Bernardo, 538-2434; Escondido, 741-4683; Valley Center, 749-1305; San Marcos, 744-0707; Vista, 940-4360;

Rancho Santa Fe, 756-2512; Encinitas, 753-7376; Cardiff, 753-4027; Solana Beach, 755-1404; Del Mar, 755-1666; Fallbrook, 728-2373; Oceanside, 966-4672 (300 N. Hill St.) and 966-4684 (3784 Mission Ave.); Carlsbad, 434-2870 (1250 Carlsbad Village Drive) and 434-2865 (7750-M El Camino Real)

Also

In addition to the local libraries, some local children’s book stores offer free story hours. In the North County, these include:

Always a Child Bookstore, 16777 Bernardo Center Drive, 487-3744. Story times Wednesdays and Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.

I Love to Read Bookstore, 12798 Rancho Penasquitos Blvd., 538-0118. Story times Wednesdays and Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.

BACK IN TIME

“History” doesn’t have to mean a boring lecture or a burdensome class in school. History can be experienced as it really is: a series of lively stories and real places that can be seen and touched by young eyes and hands. The historic sites mentioned below are especially suited to kids.

Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum: Many North County old-timers still remember when the freeways and malls were fields and ranchland, and a few even remember using the horse-drawn farm equipment and gas and steam engines on display in this museum. On the third and fourth weekends in June and October, the engines are cranked up and operating, and kids can watch live demonstrations, parades and contests.

The museum is at 2040 N. Santa Fe Ave., Vista. From California 76, take Santa Fe Ave. and go two miles south. Phone: 941-1791. Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. seven days a week. No admission fee: donations accepted.

San Pasqual Historic State Park: In 1846, the beautiful San Pasqual Valley was home to a band of Ipai Indians and a handful of Californio-Mexicans. On the night of Dec. 6, 1846, the largest battle in California took place between these settlers and the U.S. Army, which was threatening to claim the land. A small museum commemorates the battle with a film, dioramas and memorabilia. Each year the battle is re-enacted in the valley with horses and sabers and muskets. Kids and parents love this show almost as much as the participants. This year’s observance is on Dec. 8, beginning at 10 a.m.

From I-15 take the Via Rancho Parkway exit in Escondido and turn right: make another right turn onto San Pasqual Road by the high school. Follow San Pasqual Road to Highway 78 and turn right again, following signs to the Wild Animal Park. One mile east of the Wild Animal Park is the San Pasqual State Park Visitor Center. Phone: 238-3380. Hours: Thursday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission is free.

The Missions: North County boasts two of California’s most beautiful old Spanish missions, Mission San Luis Rey in Oceanside and the Mission Asistencia in Pala. They can be visited throughout the year, but one of the most entertaining way for families to enjoy these missions is to take advantage of their yearly festivals, the Fiesta in July at Mission San Luis Rey and the Corpus Christi Fiesta in June in Pala. For details, call 767-3651 for the Mission San Luis Rey and 742-3317 for the Pala Mission Asistencia.